Sarawak (Oct 17): Congratulations to the research team behind “A Smartphone-Based Diabetic Retinopathy Screening System Using Deep Learning CNN Classification,” which won the prestigious Research & Development and Commercialization Award at the Sarawak Digital Economy Awards (SDEA) 2024. The team, led by AP Dr. Kuryati Kipli from the Faculty of Engineering, includes members from the Faculty of Engineering, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, and Faculty of Computer Science and Information Technology.
Diabetic Retinopathy (DR) is a leading cause of blindness worldwide, and early detection is crucial. The project aims to develop a smartphone-based DR screening and grading application, utilizing Deep Learning (DL) technology to provide an affordable and portable solution for both Android and iOS users. This innovation will make DR screening more accessible, especially in rural areas where modern ophthalmic systems are scarce. By integrating cutting-edge imaging and DL techniques, this app will help detect and grade DR early, enhancing access to eye care and improving patient outcomes across Malaysia.
The project began in 2018 with funding from Fusionex Sdn Bhd, leading to breakthroughs like the development of a deep learning algorithm for retinal image analysis, which is now copyrighted. In 2021, additional funding from Malaysia’s Ministry of Science, Technology, and Innovation (MOSTI) supported technology commercialization efforts, resulting in the submission of a patent, securing two copyrights, and publishing several impact journals. The project has also supported three postgraduate students, contributing to human capital development. The next goal is to secure new funding to advance the project from Technology Readiness Level (TRL) 4 to TRL 7, paving the way for commercialization.
This research aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 3: Good Health and Well-Being, by improving access to early detection and treatment of Diabetic Retinopathy, a preventable cause of blindness. It also supports SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure, as the project emphasizes innovation and technology commercialization, driving the development of advanced healthcare solutions for widespread use.
Prepared by Nurul ‘Izzati Hashim & AP Dr. Kuryati Kipli, UNIMAS